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In-depth reviews

Peugeot 307 review (2001-2007)

Focus-rivalling Peugeot is very good at being average, but lacks the magic to challenge class-leaders.

Peugeot 307
Overall Auto Express rating

2.0

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Driving:
A smooth ride characterises the 307. It soaks up bumps with composure and has a long-legged, soothing feel at speed. Handling is OK but the car's strange MPV-like cabin makes it hard to place with accuracy; it feels bigger than it is, though there is talent there if you concentrate. Petrol engines are quiet unless they're worked hard, which they need to be; diesels cost more but are faster in real-world conditions. The 180bhp 2.0-litre sounds like a fun range-topper but it's not, demanding unrealistic revs and suffering a torque deficit.

Marketplace:
Peugeot offers some powerful engines with the 307 - even 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre units are useful - but they need to be as it's a weighty car. Diesels suit it best, with both 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre HDi units providing sophisticated go with fine economy. Unusually for a French car, the trim line-up is straightforward; E, S, SE, XSi and range-topping Feline. S variants offer the best balance of price and kit, though XSi trim is pleasingly sporty. The 307 offers three-and five-door hatchback bodystyles, plus an awkward-looking CC coupe-cabriolet and an accommodating estate. The latter is also offered as a pointless SW - billed as a seven-seater, the reality is those two extra pews cost extra, and even children will complain once sat inside.

Owning:
The 307 feels well-built, with quality detailing and plush trims. The biggest gripe will be rear passenger's comfort. The 307 has an almost unacceptable lack of rear legroom once the driver has found a comfortable seating position. It's reasonably well-stocked too though only upper-range models offer ESP as standard. Unusually, it hasn't been Euro-NCAP crash-tested but, more predictably, retained values are average, though the market has taken quite a fancy to SW and CC variants. Service intervals are lengthy and insurance notably low, though fuel economy of 1.6-litre petrol models is off the pace. The diesels, naturally, are excellent.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

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